MagSafe is a feature from Apple that seems ideal in theory, yet often fails to meet expectations in practice. Accessories can easily shift, detach, or add unwanted bulk to your device. OpenCase recognized these issues and sought a more effective solution. Their design enhances the attachment of MagSafe accessories while maintaining a lightweight and streamlined case. It’s a clever fix that makes you wonder why Apple didn’t implement it this way initially.
MagSafe Monday: Each week on Monday, Bradley Chambers explores the latest innovations in the MagSafe and wireless charging sectors to help you optimize your Apple devices equipped with wireless charging capabilities.
What sets OpenCase apart
As a long-time fan of MagSafe, I have often found the integration with many iPhone cases to be lacking. Reader JOhn Rokos from DMN developed OpenCase to address this concern. Central to their design is the “Accessory-Hold” area, an open section on the back of the case that securely holds MagSafe accessories, allowing them to connect directly to the iPhone itself. This innovative concept resolves two major issues associated with MagSafe: added thickness and shifting.
Standard cases add significant bulk when you attach a MagSafe accessory, with the combined thickness being more than one might anticipate. OpenCase takes an alternative route by eliminating the material that sits between the phone and the accessory. This adjustment reduces the thickness by approximately 2.5mm — a small reduction that makes a substantial difference when trying to fit your phone into a snug pocket.
The strength of magnets can differ, causing MagSafe accessories to frequently move around. Whether you’re using them on a bare iPhone or with a standard case, they often shift out of position, and occasionally they may come off entirely. OpenCase addresses this by providing a specific space for the accessories within the template area. The Accessory-Hold surrounds the accessory on all sides, ensuring it remains securely in place without sliding. It also facilitates easy swapping of items like a wallet for a pop socket at the end of the day.
Accessories for OpenCase
While there are countless MagSafe wallets available, OpenCase offers a distinctive take with its MagSafe Wallet. This wallet is designed to fit within the Accessory Hold area of the OpenCase, locking securely into place instead of merely adhering to your phone. This ensures it won’t slide, shift, or drop accidentally. In my experience, it can comfortably accommodate two credit cards alongside your driver’s license while remaining slim enough to make your phone easy to carry.
The next item showcases OpenCase’s modular design philosophy. If you want to carry your iPhone without any accessories attached, yet still desire a complete appearance, the FillerPlate is just what you need. It snaps into the Accessory Hold area when you’re not utilizing the MagWallet or any other accessory, maintaining the smoothness of the case and protecting your iPhone. Additionally, it prevents dust and lint from entering the open space.
If you’re a fan of pop sockets, OpenCase has an option for you as well. The OpenCase PopHolder keeps things tidy and secure. Like the rest of the system, it attaches within the Accessory Hold area, ensuring it stays in position without movement. It provides you with a solid grip when necessary and includes a built-in kickstand for when you want to prop up your phone.
Conclusion
In summary, OpenCase presents a thoughtfully developed take on MagSafe, creating an ecosystem of practical and user-friendly accessories. Following a successful Kickstarter campaign, all rewards have been dispatched, and their online store is now operational. The OpenCase case finds an excellent balance by delivering robust protection without unnecessary heft. The accessory collection is a promising beginning, and I look forward to seeing it expand with even more offerings in the future.
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